Altro Paradiso on Spring Street offers a refined take on Italian fare under the guidance of Chef Ignacio Mattos. Upon entering, guests are welcomed by a spacious, light-filled dining room where sleek marble accents meet warm wooden furnishings. The atmosphere balances modern elegance with a casual openness, creating a setting that feels both sophisticated and inviting.
Chef Mattos brings a distinctive approach to Italian cuisine, intertwining traditional flavors with contemporary techniques. His philosophy centers on the simplicity and purity of ingredients, allowing seasonal produce to dictate the menu's direction. This results in dishes that are both familiar and refreshingly original, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Italy while embracing subtle innovations.
The menu features house-made pastas that exemplify this ethos. Offerings such as the spaghetti alle vongole present tender clams nestled in al dente pasta, lightly coated with a garlic and white wine sauce that underscores the freshness of the seafood. Seafood crudos highlight the pristine quality of the day's catch, accented with delicate touches of citrus and herbs that enhance without overpowering.
Grilled selections showcase a dedication to technique and ingredient quality. Meats and vegetables are prepared simply, their natural flavors amplified through careful cooking over an open flame. Dishes like the charcoal-grilled lamb chops are seasoned judiciously, allowing the meat's inherent richness to take center stage alongside subtly bitter charred edges.
Altro Paradiso's commitment to excellence has been acknowledged with a mention in the Michelin Guide, reflecting its noteworthy contribution to New York's dining scene. The wine program complements the culinary offerings with a curated selection of Italian and European labels, thoughtfully chosen to pair with the menu's flavors. Knowledgeable staff can guide guests through the options, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Presentation at Altro Paradiso mirrors the restaurant's aesthetic of understated elegance. Plates are composed with an eye for balance and harmony, emphasizing the color and form of the ingredients. This attention to detail invites guests to engage with their meal visually before the first taste.
In every aspect, from the ambiance to the cuisine, Altro Paradiso embodies a dedication to authenticity and quality. Chef Ignacio Mattos has crafted a dining experience that resonates with both simplicity and depth, offering a nuanced exploration of Italian flavors reimagined through a contemporary lens.
